Nominations are now open for the 2026 Prism Awards – Ipswich Region Creative Arts Awards, marking an exciting new chapter for one of the region’s fastest-growing celebrations of local creativity.
Formerly known as the Get Your Arts In Gear Awards, the newly rebranded Prism Awards will continue to recognise and celebrate the diverse talent across Ipswich’s thriving arts scene — from theatre and music to literature, visual arts and community-driven projects.
West Bremer Radio & Media Director Bradley Clarke said the rebrand reflects the growth and future vision of the awards.
“What started as a light-hearted segment has quickly grown into something much bigger,” Clarke said. “The Prism Awards represent the full spectrum of creativity in Ipswich, and we’re excited to expand the categories and give even more artists the recognition they deserve.”
The 2026 awards introduce several new categories, alongside returning favourites, to better reflect the depth and diversity of the local arts community.
New Categories for 2026 Include:
- Best Emerging Music Artist
- Emerging Artist of the Year
- Best Public Art Project
- Best Youth Arts Initiative
Event co-host and Artsconnect representative Glen Smith said the expanded categories will open the door to even more creatives.
“Ipswich is full of incredible artists at every stage of their journey,” Smith said. “By adding new categories, we’re making sure emerging artists, young creatives and community projects all have a place to be recognised and celebrated.”
Nominations are now open to individuals, groups and organisations who have contributed to the Ipswich arts community over the past year. Community members are encouraged to nominate artists, projects or events that have made an impact.
Nominations can be submitted by scanning the official QR code, which will begin appearing in venues across the region, or online via www.prismawardsipswich.au.
The 2026 Prism Awards ceremony will be held in December, with the official date to be announced in the coming months.
“These awards are about celebrating the people who make Ipswich more creative, more connected and more vibrant,” Clarke said. “We encourage everyone to get involved and nominate someone who deserves the spotlight.”
2026 Prism Awards Categories
Performance
- Best Musical
- Best Comedy
- Best Drama
Music
- Best Music Creator
- Best Emerging Music Artist
Writing
- Best Literature
Visual Arts
- Best Art Exhibition (Solo/Group)
- Best Community Art Exhibition / Competition
- Emerging Artist of the Year
- Best Public Art Project
- Best Community Group Using Art as a Tool for Advocating
Youth
- Best Youth Arts Initiative
Recognition Awards
- Lifetime Contribution to Ipswich Arts
- Arts Champion Award (Group / Individual / Organisation)
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